WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

The Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) announced today its selection of Representative Allyson Schwartz (D-PA) as Legislator of the Year for 2011-2012. Representative Schwartz receives the award in conjunction with todays BIO Legislative Day Fly-In reception.

"As the leading House advocate for the renewal of the Therapeutic Discovery Project Tax Credit and repeal of the Independent Payment Advisory Board, Representative Schwartz has been an ardent advocate for the growth of the life science industry, which is researching and developing new cures and treatments for debilitating diseases, and providing cutting-edge technologies to improve crop yields, and discover cleaner forms of home-grown energy," said BIO President and CEO Jim Greenwood.

"Congresswoman Schwartz has been a strong and consistent champion of the life sciences industry. She recognizes the tremendous economic and societal benefits this industry produces and has distinguished herself as a leader for national policy that ultimately benefits people everywhere," said Pennsylvania Bio President Christopher Molineaux. "Pennsylvania companies,universities, andresearch institutesare fostering one of the most robust biotechnology sectors in the country. To continue our leadership in the biosciences, the support of our policymakers is critical, and we have a great champion in Representative Schwartz."

More than 200 biotechnology industry representatives from 41 states will participate in hundreds of meetings with Members of the House and Senate during the BIO Legislative Day Fly-In.Participants will discuss issues critical to the biotechnology industry including reauthorization of the Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA) V, the Transforming the Regulatory Environment to Accelerate Access to Treatments (TREAT) Act/Faster Access to Specialized Treatments (FAST) Act, adequate reimbursement for vital therapies under Medicare, and capital formation issues relevant to biotechnology companies.

Photos of the award presentation are available upon request.

BIO represents more than 1,100 biotechnology companies, academic institutions, state biotechnology centers and related organizations across the United States and in more than 30 other nations. BIO members are involved in the research and development of innovative healthcare, agricultural, industrial and environmental biotechnology products. BIO also produces the BIO International Convention, the worlds largest gathering of the biotechnology industry, along with industry-leading investor and partnering meetings held around the world.

Continued here:
Representative Schwartz Honored as BIO Legislator of the Year